Persian hogweed

Heracleum persicum

Overview

The Persian hogweed is a large flowering plant native to Turkey, Iraq and Iran. It was first introduced into Northern Europe as an ornamental curiosity and has since become established in coastal habitats, wetlands and pastures in six Member States (Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Sweden and the United Kingdom). The species’ appearance and environmental impacts are similar to those of the Sosnowsky’s hogweed and the giant hogweed.
Because of its ability to form dense impenetrable stands, the Persian hogweed has a tendency to suffocate out all other native plants and wildlife, causing significant ecological damage, particularly in Natura 2000 sites.
It also has a major economic impact due to its erosive effects and impaired drainage along river courses.
Contact with the plant’s sap, if exposed to sunlight, can cause severe skin burns. Some recreational areas have become completely inaccessible as a result.
EU-level action includes a ban on sales and any planting or keeping, including in gardens, and a rapid eradication of any new populations to avoid the excessively high costs associated with its management later on.
Where the species has become widely spread, appropriate management measures have to be taken.